Jeremiah 33:8

KJV

And I will cleanse them from all their iniquity, whereby they have sinned against me; and I will pardon all their iniquities, whereby they have sinned, and whereby they have transgressed against me.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will cleanse {H2891} them from all their iniquity {H5771}, whereby they have sinned {H2398} against me; and I will pardon {H5545} all their iniquities {H5771}, whereby they have sinned {H2398}, and whereby they have transgressed {H6586} against me.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will cleanse them from all their sins, through which they offended me; and I will pardon all their sins, through which they offended and rebelled against me.

Berean Standard Bible

And I will cleanse them from all the iniquity they have committed against Me, and will forgive all their sins of rebellion against Me.

American Standard Version

And I will cleanse them from all their iniquity, whereby they have sinned against me; and I will pardon all their iniquities, whereby they have sinned against me, and whereby they have transgressed against me.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 33:8 stands as a profound declaration of God's unwavering commitment to restore His people, Judah and Israel, not merely physically but, more importantly, spiritually. Amidst prophecies of impending judgment and exile, this verse offers a beacon of hope, promising divine cleansing from all their sin and complete pardon for their iniquities and transgressions. It underscores God's sovereign initiative to remove the spiritual barriers caused by human rebellion, paving the way for a renewed and intimate covenant relationship with a purified people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 33:8 is situated within the "Book of Consolation" (Jeremiah 30-33), a collection of prophecies delivered by Jeremiah during a time of immense national crisis, specifically while he was imprisoned in Jerusalem as the Babylonian siege intensified. While the preceding chapters of Jeremiah are replete with pronouncements of judgment against Judah for its persistent idolatry and disobedience, chapters 30-33 pivot to an extensive series of promises concerning future restoration. This particular verse follows explicit assurances of physical healing for the land and its people, the return of captives, and the rebuilding of Jerusalem, as seen in [Jeremiah 33:6-7](/jeremiah/33-6 "Jeremiah 33:6-7 - Promises of Healing and Restoration"). Verse 8 thus addresses the spiritual prerequisite for this holistic restoration, emphasizing that divine forgiveness and purification are foundational to the re-establishment of the covenant community and the fulfillment of God's promises.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Jeremiah 33 is the twilight of the Kingdom of Judah, on the cusp of its destruction by Babylon. Jerusalem was under siege (c. 588-586 BCE), and the elite had already been exiled in 597 BCE. The people were experiencing the dire consequences of centuries of covenant unfaithfulness, including idolatry, social injustice, and reliance on foreign alliances rather than God. Culturally, the concept of ritual purity was deeply ingrained in Israelite life, with various sacrifices and ceremonies designed to cleanse individuals and the community from impurity, often related to sin. However, this verse speaks of a spiritual cleansing enacted directly by God, far surpassing any ritual purification, addressing the deep-seated moral and spiritual corruption that had permeated the nation. The promise of pardon was revolutionary in a context where sin led directly to national calamity.
* **Key Themes:** Jeremiah 33:8 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Jeremiah and the broader prophetic tradition. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Initiative in Salvation**. God explicitly states, "I will cleanse them" and "I will pardon," demonstrating that restoration is not earned by human merit but is a gracious act of God's sovereign will. Secondly, it reinforces the theme of **Comprehensive Forgiveness**, emphasizing the totality of God's pardon ("all their iniquity," "all their iniquities"), which extends even to deliberate rebellion. This is crucial for understanding the depth of God's mercy despite the severity of Judah's sin, as detailed in passages like [Jeremiah 2:13](/jeremiah/2-13 "Jeremiah 2:13 - Israel's Two Evils"). Thirdly, the verse foreshadows the **New Covenant**, a central theme in Jeremiah, particularly in [Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant"). This new covenant promises an internal transformation, where God's law is written on hearts, and sins are remembered no more—a direct outgrowth of the cleansing and pardon promised in [Jeremiah 33:8](/jeremiah/33-8 "Jeremiah 33:8 - God's Promise to Cleanse and Pardon"). Finally, it underscores the **Restoration of Relationship**, as the removal of sin's barrier allows for renewed fellowship between God and His people, essential for the future flourishing of Israel.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cleanse (Hebrew, _ṭâhêr'_):** This primitive root primarily signifies "to be bright," but by implication, it means "to be pure." It encompasses physical, Levitical, and moral purity. In Jeremiah 33:8, its application is spiritual, denoting a thorough removal of the defilement of sin. It's not merely a covering but an active purification, making the people morally innocent and holy in God's sight, akin to a thorough purging.
* **Iniquity (Hebrew, _ʻâvôn'_):** This term derives from a root meaning "to bend" or "to twist," thus conveying "perversity" or "crookedness." It refers not just to a sinful act but to the moral evil inherent in the character, the guilt associated with the sin, and even the punishment that results from it. The repetition of "all their iniquity" emphasizes the pervasive and deep-seated nature of their moral corruption, which God promises to address completely.
* **Pardon (Hebrew, _çâlach'_):** This primitive root means "to forgive" or "to spare." It is almost exclusively used in the Old Testament to describe God's unique act of forgiving sin. Unlike human forgiveness, which can be conditional, divine pardon signifies a gracious, sovereign act of releasing from the guilt and penalty of sin, effectively removing the charge against the offender.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will cleanse them from all their iniquity":** This clause highlights God's active and sovereign role in initiating the purification process. "Cleanse" implies a thorough removal of defilement, addressing the deep-seated moral corruption ("iniquity") that has pervaded the people. It signifies a divine act of making pure what was impure, restoring them to a state of spiritual cleanliness before Him.
* **"whereby they have sinned against me":** This phrase clarifies the nature and target of their "iniquity." Their actions were not merely mistakes but deliberate acts of "sin" (missing the mark, going astray) directed specifically "against me"—against God Himself. This emphasizes the personal offense and covenant breach inherent in their unfaithfulness.
* **"and I will pardon all their iniquities":** This second declaration of divine action parallels the first, reinforcing the completeness of God's restorative work. "Pardon" signifies a gracious act of forgiveness, releasing the people from the guilt and consequences of their "iniquities." The repetition of "all their iniquities" underscores the comprehensive nature of this forgiveness, leaving no sin unaddressed.
* **"whereby they have sinned, and whereby they have transgressed against me":** This concluding phrase further elaborates on the extent and severity of their offenses. "Sinned" reiterates their failure to meet God's standard, while "transgressed" (Hebrew: _pâshaʻ_) implies a more deliberate act of rebellion, a breaking away from just authority, or an open revolt. The repetition of "against me" powerfully emphasizes that every offense was ultimately a direct affront to God's holiness and covenant relationship, yet even these profound acts of rebellion are met with His promise of pardon.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 33:8 is rich in literary devices that amplify its message of divine mercy and restoration. The most prominent is **Repetition**, particularly of the phrase "all their iniquity" and the verbs "sinned" and "transgressed," which serves to emphasize the comprehensive nature of both the people's sin and God's subsequent pardon. This repetition underscores that no aspect of their rebellion is overlooked by God's cleansing grace. **Parallelism** is also evident in the two main clauses: "I will cleanse them from all their iniquity... and I will pardon all their iniquities." This synonymous parallelism reinforces the singular, complete act of divine forgiveness, presenting it from two complementary angles—purification and absolution. Furthermore, the verse employs **Divine Initiative**, as the subject of all key verbs ("I will cleanse," "I will pardon") is God Himself, highlighting that this restoration is not a human achievement but a sovereign act of grace. The use of strong, active verbs for God's actions contrasts sharply with the passive consequences of human sin, creating a powerful statement of hope and divine power.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 33:8 presents a profound theological truth: God's character is defined by both justice and an even greater capacity for mercy and forgiveness. This verse is not merely a promise of spiritual cleansing for ancient Israel but a timeless revelation of God's desire to reconcile with humanity, removing the barrier of sin. It underscores that true restoration, whether for an individual or a nation, begins with divine purification and pardon, which addresses the root cause of alienation from God. This act of forgiveness is comprehensive, covering all forms of human rebellion, from unintentional failings to deliberate transgressions. It sets the stage for a renewed covenant relationship, where the people, made clean, can once again walk in fellowship with their holy God, fulfilling the ultimate purpose of their existence.

* [Psalm 103:12](/psalm/103-12 "Psalm 103:12 - God Removes Our Sins")
* [Isaiah 1:18](/isaiah/1-18 "Isaiah 1:18 - Sins Washed White as Snow")
* [Ezekiel 36:25](/ezekiel/36-25 "Ezekiel 36:25 - Cleansing and New Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 33:8 offers a powerful message of hope and assurance for believers today. In a world often burdened by guilt, shame, and the consequences of past mistakes, this verse reminds us that God's capacity for forgiveness is boundless and complete. It challenges us to confront our own "iniquities" and "transgressions," recognizing that true spiritual health begins with an honest acknowledgment of our sin and a turning to the one who promises to cleanse and pardon. This isn't a passive absolution but an active, transformative work of God that purifies us from within, enabling us to walk in renewed relationship with Him. The divine initiative in this cleansing should inspire profound gratitude and humility, drawing us closer to the source of all grace. It encourages us to extend similar grace and forgiveness to others, reflecting the character of the God who has so freely pardoned us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the comprehensive nature of God's promised cleansing and pardon in this verse impact your understanding of His grace?**
* **In what ways do you see the "iniquity" and "transgression" described here manifest in contemporary society or your own life?**
* **What practical steps can you take to more fully embrace God's cleansing and pardon in your life, and how might this transform your relationship with Him and others?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the repetition of "all their iniquity" in Jeremiah 33:8?**

Answer: The repetition of "all their iniquity" and "all their iniquities" emphasizes the comprehensive and complete nature of God's forgiveness. It assures the people that every aspect of their sin—whether it be their inherent moral perversity, their specific sinful acts, or their deliberate acts of rebellion—will be fully addressed and removed by God's cleansing and pardoning grace. It leaves no room for doubt about the totality of the divine absolution, highlighting God's boundless mercy in the face of widespread and deep-seated sin.

**How does this verse relate to the concept of a "new covenant" in Jeremiah?**

Answer: Jeremiah 33:8 is intrinsically linked to the concept of the "new covenant" detailed in [Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant"). The cleansing from iniquity and the pardon of sins promised in [Jeremiah 33:8](/jeremiah/33-8 "Jeremiah 33:8 - God's Promise to Cleanse and Pardon") are foundational elements of this new covenant. Under the old covenant, sin led to brokenness and judgment; under the new, God promises an internal transformation, writing His law on their hearts and, crucially, declaring, "for I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more" ([Jeremiah 31:34](/jeremiah/31-34 "Jeremiah 31:34 - Forgiveness in the New Covenant")). Thus, [Jeremiah 33:8](/jeremiah/33-8 "Jeremiah 33:8 - God's Promise to Cleanse and Pardon") describes the divine act of purification that makes the new covenant's intimate relationship and spiritual renewal possible.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 33:8 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament promises of cleansing and pardon, while initially given to Israel, point forward to a greater, more profound spiritual reality accomplished through the Messiah. Jesus is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose sacrificial death on the cross serves as the definitive means by which God "cleanses us from all our iniquity" and "pardons all our iniquities." The blood of Jesus, shed on Calvary, is the perfect and final atonement, making true purification possible ([Hebrews/9-22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Without Shedding of Blood There Is No Forgiveness")). Through faith in Him, believers receive not just a ceremonial cleansing but a radical spiritual transformation, being declared righteous before God ([Romans/3-23-24](/romans/3-23-24 "Romans 3:23-24 - Justification by Grace")). The New Covenant, prophesied by Jeremiah, is inaugurated in Christ's blood, establishing a relationship where sins are truly remembered no more ([Hebrews/8-12](/hebrews/8-12 "Hebrews 8:12 - New Covenant Promises")). Thus, what Jeremiah foresaw as a future hope for Israel is realized in Jesus, who offers complete forgiveness and purification to all who believe, ushering them into an eternal, reconciled relationship with God ([2_corinthians/5-17-19](/2_corinthians/5-17-19 "2 Corinthians 5:17-19 - New Creation in Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Micah 7:18

Who [is] a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth [in] mercy.

Micah 7:19

He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.

Zechariah 13:1

¶ In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.

Psalms 51:2

Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

Ezekiel 36:25

¶ Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.

Ezekiel 36:33

Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day that I shall have cleansed you from all your iniquities I will also cause [you] to dwell in the cities, and the wastes shall be builded.

Revelation 1:5

And from Jesus Christ, [who is] the faithful witness, [and] the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,